ordained minister

[peej72]

I retired in 2009 and left my entire pension plan with my church's (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) pension plan so I could continue to use the housing Allowance provision for part of my pension. I have forgotten how I did this last year (2019) tax forms. Where do I put the housing cost deduction from my pension payments.

[Cynthiad66]

As a licensed, commissioned, or ordained minister, you may be able to deduct the fair market value of a home, a parsonage (in-kind housing), or a housing allowance. The deductible amount is the lowest of:

• The amount actually used to provide or rent a home;
• The fair market rental value of the home (including furnishings, utilities, garage, etc.);
• The amount officially designated (in advance of payment) as a rental or housing allowance; or
• An amount which represents reasonable pay for services.

Bear in mind:

• A clergy person is not allowed the special housing allowance if the church has not previously designated an amount in writing. The church must have this in writing before you can use it.
• The housing allowance payments must be used in the year received and any allowance that exceeds actual housing expenses counts as income.
• Although the excludable portion of clergy housing isn't subject to federal income tax, you'll still have to pay self-employment taxes on it.

Related Information:

• How do I enter a parsonage or housing allowance on a 1099-R?
• How do I enter a parsonage or housing allowance reported on a W-2?
• Is my clergy income subject to the self-employment tax?
• How do I enter a parsonage or housing allowance if I got a 1099-NEC?

[peej72]

thank you. Very, very helpful information.